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Lisbon Guide, map and photos. boo.com members recommend hotels, restaurants and attractions in Lisbon

Lisbon guide

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Built across seven hills, Lisbon is both the largest city and capital of Portugal. It is known for its narrow cobblestone streets and Art Noveau buildings. Split into districts, one of the city’s most recognised areas is the downtown area of the Baixa. Visitors can enjoy traditional Portuguese music called Tado in the Bairro Alto or stroll through the Alfama district. Sights of interest include St. George’s Castle, which was first constructed in the 5th century and offers panoramic views across the city. There are also a wide selection of art museums and churches to visit. Sport is an important part of city life here, with football being the most popular. Football fans can enjoy a game in the 65,000 seat stadium, home to former Champions’ League winners, Benfica. This culturally diverse and laid-back city has something for everyone.

Latest reviews of Lisbon

I've only stayed at a few hostels before this... but this place completely blew those places out of the water. Joao is the nicest guy and really gets to know the people that stays at his place. By the first night I knew everyone in the hostel and we were all sharing drinks in the 2 spacious...more I've only stayed at a few hostels before this... but this place completely blew those places out of the water. Joao is the nicest guy and really gets to know the people that stays at his place. By the first night I knew everyone in the hostel and we were all sharing drinks in the 2 spacious common rooms. The kitchen and bathroom facilities are more than adequate. Joao will point you in the right direction of where you want to go... This place was so good that I probably sacrificed some sight seeing because we all spent the time we had in the hostel... No where better to go. No lie! Also... Location is great. Right next to the bars at night and a short 2 minute walk to trams that will take you to where you need to go! Beds are clean and comfortable. Lisbon was one of the best memories because of this place!close

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by junyangsim – posted on Feb 4, 2008

junyangsim, from Australia, has 1 reviews 1

el Lisbon Old Town Hostel es lo mejor hostel de toda lisboa, de verdad. el dueno, Yiau, hace todo para que hacer su viaje perfecto. Es joven y muy amable. Se habla espanol, portuguese, y ingles perfectamente. Tambien el dueno conoce la ciudad en total y se ayuda con cualquier pregunta- muy...more el Lisbon Old Town Hostel es lo mejor hostel de toda lisboa, de verdad. el dueno, Yiau, hace todo para que hacer su viaje perfecto. Es joven y muy amable. Se habla espanol, portuguese, y ingles perfectamente. Tambien el dueno conoce la ciudad en total y se ayuda con cualquier pregunta- muy ayudante y informativo en todos los aspectos. Le pregunta a el sobre restarantes, sabes los mejores. Hay una cocina que siempre esta abierta con pan y cereal. La sala comun es muy chulo, tiene mucho espacio, tres orenadores con internet gratis, sofas de piel, y un televisor grande con muchas peliculas. Tambien el direccion del hostel es perfecto, esta cerca de la vida noche pero en un lugar de seguridad. Cerca de los autobuses, trenes, y el metro por andar. Yo tuve lo mejor tiempo en lisboa a causa de este hostel, queda aqui!! :) / in english, to summarize, the Lisbon Old Town Hostel is awesome. The owner, Yiau, knows all about lisbon and will help you with whatever questions. He is so informative and only gives you the best tips. Ask about restaurants; he knows the authentic ones! Portuguese food is delicious! The common room is dope. There are two leather couches, three computers with internet, FREE! and a huge tv with great dvd selection. the kitchen always has bread and cereal, always open. cook dinner there with your friends or other travelers. The owner dined with us and bought us wine! it was a great experience. Great location, right near night life, but still very safe. Close to metro, trains, and bus system. i recommend this hostel with all sincerety. great choice. close

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by olson097843 – posted on Feb 1, 2008

olson097843, from USA, has 1 reviews 1

Lisbon oozes culture and sights to see, but the language barrier is more imposing than most countries, and my experience with Portuguese cuisine was less than stellar, which is a major deal breaker. My favourite meals were from an Indian and an Italian place, while the rest of my Portuguese...more Lisbon oozes culture and sights to see, but the language barrier is more imposing than most countries, and my experience with Portuguese cuisine was less than stellar, which is a major deal breaker. My favourite meals were from an Indian and an Italian place, while the rest of my Portuguese cuisine experience was average to poor.close

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by richardshih3218 – posted on Dec 28, 2007

richardshih3218, from Canada, has 4 reviews 4

This is a great city to visit but things can get a little pricey when you add it all up. 1.30 euros for each ride on any form of transportation. Just do what the signs tell you: watch out for pickpockets!! I got my camera stolen from my messenger bag on a crowded tram. So just be careful and...more This is a great city to visit but things can get a little pricey when you add it all up. 1.30 euros for each ride on any form of transportation. Just do what the signs tell you: watch out for pickpockets!! I got my camera stolen from my messenger bag on a crowded tram. So just be careful and take in the beautiful sights at Belém and taste the great food everywhere.close

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by pshyun2549 – posted on Nov 13, 2007

pshyun2549, from USA, has 4 reviews 4

Lisbon is a city with the special charm and magic in it! There are a lot of great monuments but also, and for me most importantly, planty of small, secret, idyllic corners that can be discovered by each person individually. What makes this city so special are people, old, young, happy and sad,...more Lisbon is a city with the special charm and magic in it! There are a lot of great monuments but also, and for me most importantly, planty of small, secret, idyllic corners that can be discovered by each person individually. What makes this city so special are people, old, young, happy and sad, walking the streets and resting in the shadow, just living their live in Lisbon. annaclose

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by adriangschwend2303 – posted on Nov 11, 2007

adriangschwend2303, from Switzerland, has 1 reviews 1

Such a weekend out visiting my best friend in his Erasmus year. Great city for those with a small budget. Eating out or doing some shopping is not as expensive as central Europe or other places. Tasting some coffe and typical cakes are always wellcomed. Also, it has a special personality that...more Such a weekend out visiting my best friend in his Erasmus year. Great city for those with a small budget. Eating out or doing some shopping is not as expensive as central Europe or other places. Tasting some coffe and typical cakes are always wellcomed. Also, it has a special personality that differs from any other capital. A stressless city with loads to do. Really recommended.close

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by Darthdla – posted on Nov 10, 2007

Darthdla, from Spain, has 12 reviews 12

Lisbon is a beautiful city and still relatively inexpensive compared to other European capitals. There is plenty to do and see and the views over the city from Sao Jorge castle are stunning. The city centre has a good variety of shops, some that look like they've not been changed since the 19th...more Lisbon is a beautiful city and still relatively inexpensive compared to other European capitals. There is plenty to do and see and the views over the city from Sao Jorge castle are stunning. The city centre has a good variety of shops, some that look like they've not been changed since the 19th century, which adds to the charm. The pavements are often decorated with patterns in the stones, and some houses too are covered with scenes made up of blue "azulejo" tiles. The Alfama area around the cathedral is the oldest part of the city; its little winding streets are very pretty and full of character. The Bairro Alto area is full of bars, clubs and restaurants and very lively at night. The city is built on a number of hills and while the city centre is relatively flat, once outside the centre the roads can be dauntingly steep so if you're out of condition, be warned! One other word of warning, i noticed a nasty trick being played by some city center restaurants which had menus displayed in several languages: depending on the language, the prices were different for the very same food. Needless to say, the Portuguese menu was the cheapest.... Don't just look at your own language - compare it against the others and if you spot price differences, well, it's up to you but I wouldn't give a place like that my custom....close

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by Donal – posted on Jul 9, 2007

Donal, from Ireland, has 129 reviews 129

Lisbon is a pretty cool city and especially great for a weekend break. There is plenty to see and do, particularly if you are keen on museums and galleries, but don't worry if thats not your thing, there's much more to see. Once you are in the city centre you can easily go around on foot,...more Lisbon is a pretty cool city and especially great for a weekend break. There is plenty to see and do, particularly if you are keen on museums and galleries, but don't worry if thats not your thing, there's much more to see. Once you are in the city centre you can easily go around on foot, although be warned, the old part of the city is pretty hilly! If you want to be lazy (like we were!) there are trams and bus tours that will give you a feel for the city and places that you might want to revisit. For those who love shopping and good restaurants you are in luck, for there are more than enough shops and eateries for you to check out. We loved the local pastries..which we felt we deserved after all those hills we went up.....on the bus.close

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by ashes72 – posted on Jun 11, 2007

ashes72, from Ireland, has 37 reviews 37

Going to Lisbon is just being home. In fact I lived there for 2 years and I love the place, the Portuguese culture and the good food. The river Tejo is magic. Therefore the area called Parque de nacoes built for the 98 Expo is worth seeing. This is modern Lisbon & it's breath-taking....more Going to Lisbon is just being home. In fact I lived there for 2 years and I love the place, the Portuguese culture and the good food. The river Tejo is magic. Therefore the area called Parque de nacoes built for the 98 Expo is worth seeing. This is modern Lisbon & it's breath-taking. Relax there walking along the river admiring the glitering water and all the rest.close

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by patricia8449 – posted on Apr 28, 2007

patricia8449, from France, has 5 reviews 5

La città è davvero bella, non è troppo grande (ma neanche piccola) e si gira tranquillamente a piedi o a bordo dei caratteristici tram. Da non perdere il quartiere di Alfama, il Monastero dei geronimiti a Belem, Bairro alto e Chiado la sera, l'Oceanario al Parco delle...more La città è davvero bella, non è troppo grande (ma neanche piccola) e si gira tranquillamente a piedi o a bordo dei caratteristici tram. Da non perdere il quartiere di Alfama, il Monastero dei geronimiti a Belem, Bairro alto e Chiado la sera, l'Oceanario al Parco delle nazioni. Fuori porta si possono raggiungere in breve tempo e a poco prezzo Sintra, Cabo da Roca (da non perdere assolutamente!), Cascais e Estoril.close

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by Cinzia6706 – posted on Apr 15, 2007

Cinzia6706, from Italy, has 4 reviews 4

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Top Rated Lisbon Places to Stay

  1. Pensão Residencial Portuense 89%      

    Bargain with pretty much luxury like private shower,WC,AC-heating and TV in very central location close to 2 metro lines(Restauradores or Rossio)and near Pl.Figueras (famous trams and bus 37 to csatle).Airport,bus and train terminals within easy reach.Excellent for tourism and entertainment...

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    by peterp7200 – posted on Nov 2008

    peterp7200, from Germany, has 37 reviews 37

    We had a most enjoyable stay, and the staff could not do enough for us. Very welcoming and friendly, would definately recommend this one.

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    by mariahide5070 – posted on Nov 2008

    mariahide5070, from England, has 1 reviews 1
  2. Hotel Principe Lisboa 87%      

    No problem. Bit of confusion about the hold on credit card to verify booking, but it was explained in a very nice and patient way.

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    by HYRAMNEWYORK – posted on Jul 2008

    HYRAMNEWYORK, from USA, has 4 reviews 4

    The price was very low and the place was relly nice. The breakfast was probably the best i have ever eat.

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    by reetta-meri6254 – posted on Feb 2008

    reetta-meri6254, from Finland, has 1 reviews 1
  3. Amazonia Lisboa Hotel 86%      

    Very nice basic hotel.

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    by saoirsed5306 – posted on May 2008

    saoirsed5306, from Ireland, has 1 reviews 1

    near rato station, staff are friendly and nice. taxi 10 euro to airport, not fancy but practical hotel.

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    by kylie6777 – posted on Mar 2008

    kylie6777, from Hong Kong, has 2 reviews 2
  4. Almirante Hotel 86%      

    What a wonderful placed they really looked after my 70 year old mum!!

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    by saintblue104290 – posted on Sep 2008

    saintblue104290, from England, has 2 reviews 2

    Something went wrong with our reservation and the hotel was fully booked. But the friendly people of the Almirante Hotel solved it quickly to offer us a stay in the hotel next to it. Great way to solve and we had a good stay!

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    by Brapa – posted on Sep 2006

    Brapa, from Netherlands, has 2 reviews 2
  5. Dom Sancho I 86%      

    this is a hotel, not a hostel and unnecessarily expensive.

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    by ntand – posted on Oct 2008

    ntand, from Turkey, has 11 reviews 11

    I recomment this place. For the first night we were crammed into a little room, but they moved us for the second night (no reduction in price). Good location, nice little room, great breakfast. Internet didnt work for the entire time we were there and the aircon leaked- but they washed our things...

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    by biddell7592 – posted on Aug 2008

    biddell7592, from Australia, has 16 reviews 16
  6. Aparthotel Vip Eden 81%      

    reception staff very helpfull, had information about everything. Excellent location, just walking distance of everything. Very good !!!!

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    by vicotu – posted on Mar 2008

    vicotu, from Argentina, has 3 reviews 3

    Good place, only gripes were we couldn't get into the room for four hours as they had to clean it and the roof top bar was never open.

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    by Jim9608 – posted on Sep 2004

    Jim9608, from Ireland, has 3 reviews 3

Top Rated Lisbon Restaurants

  1. Cervejaria Portugália100%      

    Cervejaria Portugália are restaurants dotted all over Lisbon and Portugal. They are a traditional restaurant and famous for the beef they do thats submersed in a special cream. The dish is know as Bife do Lombo. They do stews, fish, seafood, salads and other such dishes. Every time I'm in Lisbon I go to one of the Portugálias. My favorites are the original...

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    by CryingHero – posted on Nov 2007

    CryingHero, from Ireland, has 42 reviews 42
  2. Bota Alta100%      

    Unlike the upmarket Clara restaurant reviewed also here, this place is a little local bistro-style Portuguese restaurant in the lively Bairro Alto area. The place is always heaving with locals and so reserving is essential. The traditional Portuguese cooking is excellent!

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    by Donal – posted on Jul 2007

    Donal, from Ireland, has 129 reviews 129
  3. Antiga Confeitaria de Belem100%      

    • What?

        Café
    • Where?

        Located in the Jardim do Ultramar
    • Anything Else?

        A brilliant place to go for those who love pastries and also the home of the pasteis de nata for which their recipe is kept secret.

    This famous, famous cafe has a reputation to live up to, and it does. Although they apparently sell 10,000 Pasteis de Belém, the fantastic crispy pastry outside, with a soft, vanilla-ey custard -slightly burnt on top - on the inside...these really are the original and best in the city. Busy, but we found a seat quite easily, it was cheap, good service and...

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    by Bowhaus – posted on Jun 2008

    Bowhaus, from UK, has 1 reviews 1
  4. Cafe Restaurante Martinho da Arcada100%      

    This is a great spot for several reasons. Its location, it's menu and it's staff. We came across this spot during our daily rambles and often dropped in for a beer to cool us down, or a pastry to reboost our energy levels. They also have a great lunchtime and evening menu. We ate there one evening and enjoyed some fantastic Portuguese fish dishes...all washed...

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    by ashes72 – posted on Jun 2007

    ashes72, from Ireland, has 37 reviews 37
  5. Clara80%      

    This restaurant was recommended to me by a friend from Lisbon and it didn't disappoint. The food and service was excellent, the wines very good and while it was pricey for Portugal the meal cost a lot less than it would have in other European cities. The food is a mixture of traditional Portuguese and international European. The dining room is elegant with...

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    by Donal – posted on Jul 2007

    Donal, from Ireland, has 129 reviews 129

Top Rated Lisbon Attractions

  1. Fado100%      

    If in Lisbon, be sure to attend a Fado session. This Portuguese music genre is characterized by mournful tunes and lyrics. It is a kind of longing, and conveys a complex mixture of mainly nostalgia, but also sadness, pain, happiness and love. Really unmissable!

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    by Bairana – posted on May 2007

    Bairana, from Argentina, has 42 reviews 42
  2. Plaza de los Pescadores100%      

    Una de las plazas principales de Lisboa, por su inmensidad y tradición es increíble de recordar

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    by Mag – posted on Jun 2007

    Mag, from Spain, has 3 reviews 3
  3. Parque das Nações100%      

    Located on the Tagus riverfront, a lazy morning or afternoon can be spent here, in the 'new part' of the city. You'll find the oceanurium, cable car rides, exhibition centres, themed gardens and plenty of coffee shops and restaurants. Use the hop on/ off bus to get here and enjoy taking a coffee in the sunshine, before taking a leisurely walk along the...

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    by ashes72 – posted on Aug 2007

    ashes72, from Ireland, has 37 reviews 37
  4. Open Top City Bus Tour80%      

    Well, I knew I was getting old when the thoughts of parking my bum on a comfy bus seat to view the city was preferable to walking around with a map under the blazing sun (ok, so slight exaggeration- but it was hot!) Anyway, this company operate 2 city tours, one for the old sites of the city and the other for the new sites of the city, such as the Oceanarium....

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    by ashes72 – posted on Aug 2007

    ashes72, from Ireland, has 37 reviews 37
  5. Barrio Alto80%      

    Aim to go here either early in the morning and then come back in the evening, or head here in the late afternoon and stay til nightfall and you will see the old part of the city transform from a relaxed shopping area to a thriving, party scene. So if you are looking for a lively night out in Lisbon hit for the Barrio Alto area, just make sure you don't have to...

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    by ashes72 – posted on Aug 2007

    ashes72, from Ireland, has 37 reviews 37

Top Rated Lisbon Bars

  1. Chapitô100%      

    Precioso lugar para tomar un café en una terraza con una vista maravillosa, cenar en un restaurante bueno, bonito y con amable servicio, o tomar una copa escuchando fados en un ambiente moderno y joven. ¿Qué más se puede pedir? Sí, que este espacio sea una asociación para el fomento del arte y la cultura y una escuela de artes circenses.

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    by princesadelretiro – posted on Dec 2007

    princesadelretiro, from Spain, has 2 reviews 2
  2. Crazy Frog100%      

    I know what your thinking, the ring tone? Yes but no. This bar in Expo98 is a lively English, German, French, Spanish, Chinese, Portuguese etc. speaking bar. There is a live DJ or Band each night and is located along a strip of other Bars/Pubs/Restaurants. Lots of Portuguese news talk shows do transmissions from time to time so you never know might end up on...

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    by CryingHero – posted on Nov 2007

    CryingHero, from Ireland, has 42 reviews 42
  3. Buddha Bar80%      

    A very good place to dance in Lisbon, cute girls, good music

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    by thomas412 – posted on Jun 2007

    thomas412, from Canada, has 2 reviews 2

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